Conor McGregor is the UFC’s biggest star hands down and he has made it very clear that he wants to be compensated for it. After easily dispatching Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205, McGregor gave up his featherweight title belt amid reports that he was forced to do so. McGregor also shared in his post fight press conference his desire for an equity stake in the UFC, if they want him to continue fighting for them.
Conor has played the leverage game before which has lead to bigger pay days, so he decided to play his hand again.
Confirmed with California State Athletic Commission that Conor McGregor has been issued a boxing license as of today.
— Brett Okamoto (@bokamotoESPN) December 1, 2016
Breaking: Conor McGregor has been issued a boxing license in the state of California, per his manager @AudieAttar.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) December 1, 2016
A move like this is interesting because it instantly creates chatter about a possible match against Floyd Mayweather next year. McGregor’s action of seeking and obtaining a license will raise questions on his intent to actually box professionally in California, perhaps in preparation for a future showdown against Mayweather. Conor understands his value to the UFC, and this may influence them to do what it takes to try to protect their most valuable commodity.
One important thing should be noted, McGregor tried to get licensed in Nevada but was denied for various reasons, one he still owes them fine money from a press conference incident with the Diaz brothers.
But, the fact that he was trying to get license in Nevada where Mayweather exclusively fights lets you know there is something going on behind the scenes even if the chances are still remote a fight happens.
Probably what is happening is McGregor knows all this just is good PR and attention, Mayweather’s representatives literally laughed at McGregor’s license and says it is all a con game. It should be noted that Mayweather was the original one who started the rumors.
If these guys end up at Wrestlemania don’t be shocked.